Are You Wearing the Right Parkour Shoes? 4 Tips on How to Choose One

In an extreme sport like parkour, you need the right accessories that can help you perform better and faster. Parkour is all about moving from one space to another based on the environment you have and that means that you need the right shoes that can help you run, jump and land correctly.

It is usually said that parkour shoes are expensive, but the fact is it is just a myth. Parkour shoes are affordable and there are certain things that you need to keep in mind to ensure you’re buying the right ones.

Get the Right Sole

Parkour is an intense sport and therefore you have to be very clear about the sole of the shoe you’re purchasing. It is recommended that you choose shoes that have a one-piece sole that will last longer and will provide you with better comfort while making your parkour moves.

Two or multiple sole shoes will tend to fall off sooner or later and will not allow you to perform your best. Shoes that have more than one sole usually have soles glued together and which probably won’t withstand the impact when you are jumping and running around.

Cracked soles will only make your running and landings harder and difficult which sometimes might lead to injuries. On the other hand, you also need to choose parkour shoes that have thin soles so you can feel your landings and everything beneath your feet.

Thicker soles provide extra cushioning which will not provide with the same level of balance. The rubber on the sole must not be too hard or too soft. This way you can be sure that your shoe sole provides you with the right grip to help you perform parkour moves with ease.

Check the Weight

This is another important factor that you need to consider when buying parkour shoes. Parkour shoes are bit heavier than regular running shoes, but too much of weight will put you down and keep you from jumping and gaining height. It is recommended that you purchase shoes that become one with your body. Your parkour shoe must be thin, lightweight and comfortable allowing you the confidence to perform and improve your parkour skills.

Evaluate the Arch

Precision landing is an important part of parkour and therefore it is essential that you have the right shoes that can help you land safely. This is where the grip of your parkour shoes and shoe arch matter. When you land, your body moves forward and cause unbalancing which can further lead to injuries. With the right kind of parkour shoes you shoe arch will keep your feet from slipping forward and provide the right grip required.

Focus on Flexibility

You also need to focus on the material of your parkour shoes to ensure you get the right comfort and flexibility when you are running or jumping around. Your shoe must be made up of material which has the right level of stiffness to protect your feet and ankles, but at the same time, it should be flexible enough. If the material is rough and obstructs your movement you will not be able to run faster and jump higher.

Some of the best parkour shoes for women are Asics Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81, Inov-8 Unisex F-Lite 240 and Vivobarefoot Stealth shoe. On the other hand, best parkour shoes for men include Puma Faas 500 V4, Vivobarefoot EVO Pure, and Nike Men’s Flex 2015.

Get the right gear for parkour

Get a parkour backpack so you can take all your belongings with you and stay hydrated on the run.

Looking to up your parkour game? Read our reviews and get a pair of parkour gloves today.